Basilica Therma The Basilica Therma, an ancient Roman bathhouse located in the town of Sarikaya in Yozgat province, Turkey, is a historic landmark that has been in operation for centuries. Historical records suggest it was built in the 2nd century AD and has been in use throughout the Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman eras, and remains open to the public today. The spa is home to a large thermal pool that measures 23.30 x 12.80 meters, with a depth of 1.34 meters and a water temperature of approximately 45°C (110°F). Additionally, there is an inner pool that extends into the main swimming area, measuring 16.00 x 4.00 meters, as well as a third pure-thermal heated pool, which is semi-circular in shape and measures 15.00 x 5.20 meters. Although only three of the pools are currently in operation, researchers have confirmed that the complex originally contained seven pools. The presence of bull’s heads on the pillars and snake symbols carved into the stone may seem unusual, but they hold significant historical and cultural meaning. The bull’s head symbolized the power of Rome, while the snake motifs were associated with Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, and Hermes, the god of knowledge. These symbols underscore the spa's original role as an ancient thermal treatment facility, where individuals would immerse themselves in warm water for therapeutic purposes. Basilica Therma is believed to be the world’s oldest thermal treatment center. In 2018, Basilica Therma was included in UNESCO's Tentative List, acknowledging its significance as a one-of-a-kind and historically important site. If you have any questions or need further information regarding Basilica Therma, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply message us via Whatsapp, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.